Load bearing interlocking structural blocks and modular building system

ABSTRACT

Construction materials intended for use as structural elements, such as structural blocks, used in the construction of buildings and civil engineering structures. In one aspect, the blocks may comprise a body shape configured so as to allow it to interlock with other blocks in the construction of a structure. Methods for manufacturing the blocks and structures comprising such materials and methods for building such structures are also disclosed.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention disclosed herein relates to particular constructionmaterials, as well as processes for preparation and uses of suchmaterials. Such materials may be intended for use as structuralelements, such as structural blocks, used in the construction ofbuildings and civil engineering structures.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The production of blocks for masonry using vegetal additionsincorporated in a lime-based binder matrix (for example hemp used toproduce Chanvribloc™ blocks) is a known process in the art.

The prior art also discloses blocks used in the construction ofstructures, such as houses and commercial buildings, which may haveproperties that are either insulating or load bearing.

WO 2014072533 discloses an insulating construction material with analleged low thermal conductivity comprising vegetal additions, as wellas to a process for preparation and to uses of such a material.

It would be advantageous for there to be a structural block that had acomposition and configuration that integrated both load bearingcapabilities with insulating properties.

It would also be advantageous for there to be further means forproviding additional reinforcement and tension bearing capabilities to astructural block.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention disclosed herein relates to particular constructionmaterials, as well as processes for preparation and uses of suchmaterials. Such materials may be intended for use as structuralelements, such as structural blocks, used in the construction ofbuildings and civil engineering structures. When the materials are usedin the production of structural blocks, such blocks may integrate loadbearing capabilities together with insulating properties.

In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, structural blocksare provided that may be configured to interlock with complimentaryblocks in the construction of a structure.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, an interlockingstructural block is provided comprising a plurality of members embeddedwithin the block, one end of the member extending through one surface ofthe structural block and an opposite end of the member terminatingpartway within the structural block, a plurality of apertures extendwithin the structural block from a second surface of the structuralblock, the apertures adapted for engaging with an extending end of anadjacent structural block.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, aninterlocking structural block is provided comprising a block body havingopposed top and bottom surfaces, opposed side surfaces and opposed endsurfaces, a plurality of members embedded within the block, one end ofthe member extending through the top surface of the structural block andan opposite end of the member terminating partway within the structuralblock, wherein the embedded members comprise material which issubstantially non-compressible along its length and contribute to theload bearing attributes of the structural block under compression, aplurality of apertures extending within the structural block from thebottom surface of the structural block to the terminating end of anembedded member of the structural block, the apertures adapted forengaging with an extending end of an adjacent structural block, at leastone perforated tube embedded within the structural block, and at leastone conduit for accommodating electrical wiring, piping or utilities.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention a system ofauto-aligning interlocking structural blocks is provided, comprising aplurality of structural blocks, each block having opposed top and bottomsurfaces, opposed side surfaces and opposed end surfaces, a plurality ofmembers embedded within the block, one end of each member extendingthrough one surface of the structural block with an opposite end of themember terminating partway within the structural block, a plurality ofapertures extending through the structural block from an opposedsurface,wherein the embedded member extending end of a first structuralblock engages with the aperture of a second block, such that theembedded member terminating end of the second block is in direct contactwith the embedded member extending end of the first block.

A further aspect is the use of the interlocking structural blocks of thepresent invention in the manufacture of a structure.

Further aspects, features and advantages of the present invention willbe apparent from the following descriptions and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The subject matter which is regarded as the invention is particularlypointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of thespecification. The invention, however, may best be understood byreference to the following detailed description of various embodimentsand accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a structural block in accordancewith the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the structural block of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the structural block of FIGS. 1-2;

FIG. 4 is a top view of a structural block in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of a structural block comprisingconduits therethrough, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of the structural block of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the structural block of FIGS. 5-6;

FIG. 8 is a top view of a structural block comprising perforated strutsin accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a front view of the structural block of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a side view of the structural block of FIGS. 8-9;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a structural block adapted toaccommodate a tensioning system therethrough;

FIG. 12 shows various views and types of structural blocks adapted toaccommodate a tensioning system;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a tensioningsystem comprising a hex swage tensioner;

FIG. 14 shows various views and types of structural blocks adjoinedtogether through a tensioning system;

FIG. 15 is a top view of a structural block adapted to accommodate acompression strut;

FIG. 16 is a front view of the structural block of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a side view of the structural block of FIGS. 15-16;

FIG. 18 is a front view of another structural block adapted toaccommodate a compression strut;

FIG. 19 is a side view of the structural block of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a back view of the structural block of FIGS. 18-19;

FIGS. 21-33 show various views of a construction of a building inaccordance with the present invention using the blocks of the presentinvention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The present invention relates to particular construction materials, aswell as processes for preparation and uses of such materials. Whendescribing the present invention, any term or expression not expresslydefined herein shall have its commonly accepted definition understood bythose skilled in the art. To the extent that the following descriptionis of a specific embodiment or a particular use of the invention, it isintended to be illustrative only, and not limiting of the invention,which should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with thedescription as a whole.

The construction materials of the present invention are intended for usein structural elements for building structures and civil engineeringstructures.

In one embodiment, the materials are used in the production ofstructural blocks. In one aspect, the blocks of the present inventionmay be designed so as to integrate compression and torsional loadbearing capabilities with insulation properties.

FIGS. 1-4 illustrate structural blocks in accordance with preferredembodiments of the present invention. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-4, eachblock of the present invention may comprise a body shape configured soas to allow it to interlock with other blocks when constructing astructure, such as a wall or house. Such design can provide furtherstrength to the overall structure.

In one embodiment, each block can accommodate one or more embeddedmember. The member, which may also be termed a strut in the art, may beembedded within the block or inserted during building construction andmay contribute to the load bearing properties of the block, particularlycompression loads. One end of the embedded member may protrude out agiven distance from one side of the block, while the opposite end of theembedded member may terminate partway within the block on an oppositeside.

In another embodiment, the embedded member may be flush with the surfaceof the block and a positioning device may also be used to align and jointhe members together. For example, a tube with directional clips may beused between blocks to grip the abutting member ends in adjacent blocks.

A recess or opening can be formed within the block and can extend fromthe terminating end of the embedded member within the block through tothe surface of a side of the block, opposite to the side through whichthe embedded member protrudes.

In one embodiment, the extended end of the embedded member may protrudefrom the block by a distance that is approximately equivalent to thedepth of the recess within the block. By way of example, a block with aheight of 8 inches may accommodate an embedded member that is 8 inchesin length. The protruding end of the member may extend 2 inches out fromthe surface of one side of the block, with the remaining 6 inchesembedded within the block. A recess formed within the block at themember's opposite end may be 2 inches in depth. The recess may extendimmediately from the terminating end of the embedded member housed inthe block, to the surface of the opposite side of the block.

A recess can be of a size, shape and may be spaced apart from oneanother so as to align with and accommodate the protruding end of anembedded member of another block. Such an arrangement may be similar toan interlocking “pin and socket” arrangement and can function as alocating means for the purpose of accurately positioning a block withrespect to an additional block(s) while also contributing to the loadbearing attributes of the block under compression.

When the protruding end of an embedded member of one block is positionedinto the corresponding recess of a second block, the protruding end ofthe embedded member may be in direct contact with the terminating end ofthe embedded member of the second block. As a result, the blocks can besaid to auto align, and the embedded members can be said to form astacked structure forming a load bearing structural member.

For ease of assembly, a recess within the block may have a width that issome measurement greater than the width of the embedded member. In oneembodiment, the width of the recess may be ¼ inch wider than the widthof the member, for example, ⅛ inches on either side of the recess (oneach of the four sides when the block and recess are square), toaccommodate ease of insertion of the protruding member of an adjacentblock.

Any suitable binding agent, such as lime mortar for example, may be usedto bind the protruding end of an embedded member of one block into thecorresponding recess of a second block. Such a bond, when formed, may bestronger than the block itself.

When the embedded member and corresponding recess are interlocked, amolecular bond may be formed that can contribute to the load bearing orother structural properties of the block. In some instances, the loadbearing capabilities of the block of the present invention may beseveral times greater than that of a hollow concrete block, and moresimilar to or exceeding that of a conventional stud-framed wallstructure.

In another embodiment, holes may be created on the block that may bepositioned an equal distance between the embedded members. Asillustrated in FIGS. 5-7, the holes may be used to create a conduit toaccommodate electrical wiring or other utilities inside, for example, astructure's wall. The holes may also be beneficial to the curingprocess, by exposing the block's interior, for example, to injectedcarbon dioxide. In an alternate embodiment, some strut members may behollow and slotted. As illustrated in FIGS. 8-10, in another embodiment,additional perforated tubes or struts may be incorporated in the blockstherethrough.

The composition of the member or strut itself may comprise any rigidmaterial or mixtures thereof, with any preferences to materials useddirected to cost considerations and load bearing capabilities of thematerial. In a preferred embodiment, the embedded member may compriseany wooden material, such as fir, spruce, pine, cedar, etc. The elementmay also comprise composites of organic or inorganic fibers, such ashemp or carbon fiber, etc. In yet a further embodiment, the embeddedmember may comprise a blend of bio fibers and polymers, such aspolyethylene, polypropylene or polyester. Some compatible metals mayalso be used. A member or strut may also be hollow, such as a hollowsquare or cylindrical tube. Other materials may include metals, carbonfibre or composites, 3D printed or extruded plastics or any suitablestructural members.

Tensioning System

In one embodiment, the block of the present invention may be adapted soas to be tension bearing as well. As illustrated in FIGS. 11-12, a blockmay be further adapted so as to accommodate a tensioning system that canprovide tension. In such an embodiment, the embedded member of the blockcan accommodate a tensioning means though the length of the member, suchtensioning means entering through the one end of the member and exitingthrough the other end of the member.

In one embodiment, the tensioning means may be a cable, such as, forexample, a tensioned non-stretch stainless steel cable. In an alternateembodiment, the system may comprise a rod.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, when the tensioning system includes a cable,the tensioning end assembly can comprise a hex swage tensioner, inaddition to the cable.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, when assembled, the embedded members of eachblock can be aligned with the corresponding members of other blocks, toallow the passage of the tensioning means through multiple embeddedelements and blocks.

Such a configuration provides a further fastening means for a structurecomprising the blocks of the present invention. In particular, such aconfiguration may be tension bearing, in that the blocks may be adjoinedtogether through tension suitable for non-vertical structural elementssuch as floors, walls, pitched or flat roof surfaces, etc.

In another embodiment, an additional member, which may be termed acompression strut, can be used for the purpose of increasing thecompression strength of the structural element formed by tensionedblocks. As illustrated in FIGS. 15-20, a compression strut may, forexample, be placed approximately perpendicular between and in contactwith a pair of existing members or struts integrated into the body ofthe block each of which accommodates a cable as tensioning means. Theapplication of the compression strut in this embodiment may assist inkeeping the embedded member pair properly spaced, without needingstructure inherent in the block material, keeping the adjacent pairs oftensioned struts and cable or rod essentially equidistant throughouttheir length.

Other elements such as strut caps and/or mounting plates may be used inaccordance with the present invention. By way of example, a strut capmay be set into a block over the protruding end of an embedded member,with the extending end extruding from the cap.

In practice, the tensioning means may be tensioned post construction,after the blocks have been aligned.

When the tensioning means comprises a cable, the tensioning procedurewith regard to a roof, for example, may include the following steps:

-   -   (i) Beams may be assembled using the tension blocks on a flat        horizontal surface and pre tensioned by use of cables and lifted        into position. Alternatively scaffolding would be required to        assemble in place and post tension the blocks using cables.    -   (ii) Once the roof is constructed (minus the end caps) the        non-swaged end of the cable is fed through the embedded member,        starting at the peak of the roof.    -   (iii) The cable is pulled taught.    -   (iv) The second end of the cable is swaged as close to the hex        tensioner as possible.    -   (v) The hex tensioner is tightened as much as needed.

In one embodiment, the frequency of tensioning means may need be appliedonly as required, for example, every meter of the assembled structure,to form a floor, roof, or other non-vertical structure, or can be awall.

Bio-Fiber Structural Block

-   -   In a preferred embodiment, the body of the block of the present        invention can comprise a primarily fibrous and lime composition.        Specifically, the composition for each block may comprise the        following components:    -   (i) hemp hurd, and fibers    -   (ii) flax fiber    -   (iii) hydraulic lime    -   (iv) hydrated lime

Certain benefits may be realized through the practice of a blockcomprising the preferred composition of the present invention.Compositions comprising hemp hurd, flax, hydraulic lime and hydratedlime may be environmentally sustainable, recyclable and may sequestercarbon dioxide from the atmosphere, while providing exceptionalinsulating qualities.

While a concrete block may need to be restricted in size, for example 16inches, due to weight for handling, a block of the present invention mayhave a length of 48 inches or more and may maintain ease of handlingbecause of its lower density, for example, 300 kg/cubic meter.

The lime component may primarily act as a binding agent, holding theother components together. However, any suitable binding agent may besubstituted in instances, for example, when a stronger bonding agent maybe required. Suitable alternative binding agents can include polymerbased agents, for example silica sand, pozzolans, polyester resins, orPortland or similar cement or plaster. Such alternative agents may alsobe used in combination with the lime component of the preferredembodiment.

The hemp hurd and fiber component can provide insulating properties,bulk, support and strength to the block and structural members in theblock. However, any alternate material or combination of materials thatcan provide similar desirable properties may be used in the alternative.Some organic alternatives include fibrous materials, such as cornstocks, cereal grain, straw, etc. Hemp hurd is a preferred material,primarily due to its insulating qualities in relation to the otherfibers.

Alternatively, non-organic materials such as Styrofoam/polystyrene ornon-recyclable plastics may be used. Such materials may also be used ina shredded form. Structural fibers (oriented cellulose strands,plastics, metal or carbon filaments) may also be incorporated orsubstituted. The application of these non-organic alternatives mayprovide an additional advantage, in that such non-recyclable materialsmay be sequestered from the environment, or may add different qualitiesto the blocks (strength, conductivity, electrical or RF shielding, noiseabatement, etc.).

Recyclable and Sustainable

The composition of a preferred embodiment comprises hemp hurd, flax,hydraulic lime and hydrated lime. The primarily fibrous-lime combinationis organic and composed of bio-recyclable material. When the useful lifeof a structure that uses such blocks comes to an end, its components maybe recycled. For example, the entire block may be ground up and remixedfor further subsequent applications.

The components of the composition are also sustainable. For example,hemp hurd, in addition to its favorable properties, is readily availablein supply and grows very quickly with little water and fertilizer.

Other favorable properties may be realized by the fibrous-limecomposition of the preferred embodiment. In particular, such acombination allows the building to “breathe”. Air and humidity can passboth in and out of the blocks at a very slow rate. No vapor barrier maybe required to be used.

The composition may also be resistant to mold, termites and other insectpests.

A structure using the block composition of the preferred embodiment mayallow for fire resistance, due to the properties of the hemp hurd andlime mixture, or other compositions.

In another embodiment, the blocks of the present invention may befurther coated with a lime finish. A block of the present invention maybe coated with several, for example five or more, coats of lime.

A structure using the blocks of the present invention can be bonded tobecome monolithic. Such properties can be especially beneficialparticularly in areas prone to earthquakes, hurricanes or tornados.

Water proofing or moisture resistant properties may also be realized,particularly by use of the lime component. The lime component can alsoallow a block of the preferred embodiment to “heal” itself. For example,a crack in the lime coating can close over time when it is subjected tomoisture.

Carbon Dioxide Sequestration

The carbon dioxide sequestration properties of a block that comprisesthe preferred composition of the present invention allows for theremoval and sequestration of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide from theEarth's atmosphere.

The hemp hurd component of the composition can sequester carbon dioxideat a rate of over approximately 20 tonnes per hectare as the plantsgrow.

It is estimated that the hemp hurd-lime composition blocks of thepreferred embodiment have the capability to capture/absorb overapproximately 100 kilograms of carbon dioxide per cubic meter. The limecomponent can use carbon dioxide to cure and set the mixture. An averagehouse comprising such blocks, for example, can capture approximately13,000 kilograms of carbon dioxide during block production and cancontinue absorbing carbon dioxide for approximately 100 years.

Methods of Manufacture

The fabrication of the blocks of the present invention may be attainedby means using a mold process.

During manufacture, the embedded members or struts may be cut to thedesired length, such as, for example, 8 inches in length. A hole may bedrilled through the lengths of the bodies of those members that willserve as conduits for the tensioning means.

A desired number of struts and perforated tubes are placed into a moldat the desired positions, in a jig.

A mixture comprising the components of the block's composition may becombined and mixed. The mixture may then be, for example, poured,sprayed or injected into the mold.

The composition may be compressed and/or heated and allowed to set.During the curing process, carbon dioxide may be injected or passed by(or through conduits within) the curing block, which decreases the curetime. Depending on the lime composition used, the blocks may also becured in an autoclave to control the temperature, humidity and carbondioxide environment.

A lime coating may be applied to the inner and outer face of the blocksat time of manufacture which may increase the block strength and reduceconstruction finishing time.

The blocks of the present invention may be pre-manufactured and then cutas desired on site.

Building Structure and Related Materials

A structure and related building materials is also disclosed by thepresent invention, as illustrated in FIGS. 21-33.

In a preferred embodiment, such building materials may include blocks asdisclosed in the present invention. Consequently, the blocks used in thestructure of the present invention may be load bearing, tension bearingand insulating.

The blocks used may be of standard building construction dimensions.Height width and length may vary, depending upon the application,orientation and desired insulation requirements. For example, the blocksused for the walls of a structure may be a standard 11″ thick and 8″high, while varying in length. Roof structure blocks may be 12″ high and16″ wide.

The building materials may also be pre-manufactured prior to beingtransported to an intended building site for assembly.

A 1400 square foot house structure is provided by way of example below.

Wall blocks

The wall blocks can be of a standard height and width, and may vary inthe length. The wall blocks may be a standard 11″ deep and 8″ high, andmay vary in the length. The total count below includes blocks that maybe cut on site.

4″: 8

8″: 12

12″-2 struts: 13

12″-4 struts: 29

16″: 7

20″: 13

24″: 63

32″: 97

36″: 43

48″: 644

Total wall block count: 929

48″ wall starter strips-(may be made of pressure treated plywood): 65

Roof blocks

R=roof

Ed=edge (always 48″)

S=starter

E=end

P=peak

Total counts include blocks that may be cut on site.

R24′: 1

R32″: 2

R48″: 198

Red: 20

Re24: 2

Re32: 1

Re48: 19

Reed: 2

Rs24: 1

Rs48″: 23

Rsed: 2

Rp24″: 2

Rp48″: 21

Rped: 2

Total roof block count: 296

Beam blocks

Standard 16″: 36

16″ end block: 1

16″ end cap: 2

Standard 12″: 4

12″ end cap: 1

Total beam block count: 44

Structural Ties

Structural ties may be breathable and in one embodiment, may be madefrom 16 gauge stainless steel mesh.

Roof/Wall Structural Tie: 23

Peak tie: 30

Square mesh tie: 25

Structural bracket: 5

Wood (Rough Cut Unless Noted Otherwise)

1½″×12″×12″ under 12″ beam: 1

1⅝″×12″×16″ under 16″ beam: 2

2′×6′ roof starter block support (1 each):

37′-8″ long

35′-8″ long

-   -   11′-8″ long    -   2′ long

2×6 window/door headers and footers (dressed):

-   -   6′-4″ long: 2 (master bedroom window)    -   9′ long: 2 (living room window)    -   5′ long: 1 (front door)

8′-4″ long: 1 (back door/window)

3′-8½″ long: 1 (back window footer)

6′ long: 4 (bedroom windows)

2×4 window/door trim (dressed)

-   -   6′-8″ long: 4 (doors)    -   3′-4″ long: 8 (windows—not living room)    -   4′-8″ long: 2 (living room windows)

Fasteners

The fasteners used should be compatible with lime construction and caninclude stainless steel or ceramic coated fasteners.

Finish of the Structure

In an embodiment of the present invention, lime mortar or anothersuitable mortar may be brushed on all block faces that are adjacent toanother block face. As a result, this can create a structure that ismonolithic and sealed.

The interior walls of the structure of the present invention may be alime rendering, which may be colored or have breathable paint appliedover it. In an alternative embodiment, there is no further applicationrequired to the interior walls. In another embodiment, the interiorwalls may also be covered in panels of sheetrock, wood veneer or brick,preferably with approximately a minimum 1″ air space constructed betweenthe bricks and the interior paneling.

The exterior walls of the structure of the present invention may have aplain coat bio-fiber and lime finish applied. Such an application canadd to monolithic quality and building strength with a more finishedlook and a non-fading or fading resistant color finish. In anotherembodiment, the exterior walls can have a mortar application, or “stuccolook”. Such an application can also add to monolithic quality andbuilding strength with a more finished look and a non-fading or fadingresistant color finish. In a further embodiment, typical wall sidingbrick veneer and other non permeable materials may be used, and shouldmaintain a minimum 1″ space from the block surface. In yet anotherembodiment, there is no further application required to the exteriorwalls, and the blocks may be formed with a decorative exterior surfaceon them. The blocks may have embossed or patterned surfaces fordecorative or other purposes such as sound absorption, water-shedding,light reflectivity and so on.

Any roofing material known in the art may be used in conjunction withthe roof of the present invention structure. If non-breathable materialis used, there should be an approximately one inch minimum space betweenthe non-breathing material and the roof block. In one embodiment, theroof may be coated, for example, with a 7 coat, 100 year lime finish. Inan alternative embodiment, the roof may further comprise bio-fiberbreathable “clay-like” tiles which may not require an air space.

Preferred Proposed Block Benefits

A most preferred embodiment of the present invention would possess someor all of the following characteristics:

-   -   Strong load bearing capabilities    -   Excellent insulating properties R26 to R40 or λ=0.07 W/m·K with        100% thermal break    -   Excellent fire rating    -   Environmentally sustainable, Carbon zero or negative co2        building material classification    -   Good thermal inertia and thermal mass characteristics to        regulate inside temperature    -   Excellent air and humidity permeability    -   Conforms to existing building standards and dimensions making it        easy for contractors and architects to implement. Conventional        fasteners such as stainless steel or Ceramic coated screws may        be used    -   Lightweight for ease of handling and requires no skilled labour        for construction assembly    -   Very rapid construction, Constructed walls are weatherproof and        finishes may be applied immediately. Factory prepared face        surfaces require minimal interior and exterior finishing    -   Standard sizes may permit robotic or machine-assisted assembly        at site    -   Integrated conduit paths within blocks to accommodate electrical        and utilities

In the preceding description, for purposes of explanation, numerousdetails are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding ofthe embodiments of the invention. However, it will be apparent to oneskilled in the art that these specific details are not required in orderto practice the invention.

The above-described embodiments of the invention are intended to beexamples only. Alterations, modifications and variations can be effectedto the particular embodiments by those of skill in the art withoutdeparting from the scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An interlocking structural block comprising: ablock body having opposed top and bottom surfaces, opposed side surfacesand opposed end surfaces; a plurality of members embedded within theblock, one end of the member extending through one surface of thestructural block and an opposite end of the member terminating partwaywithin the structural block; a plurality of apertures extending withinthe structural block from a second surface of the structural block, theapertures adapted for engaging with an extending end of an adjacentstructural block.
 2. The interlocking structural block of claim 1,wherein the plurality of embedded members extend through one surface ofthe structural block and the plurality of apertures extend within thestructural block from an opposed surface of the structural block.
 3. Theinterlocking structural block of claim 2, wherein the plurality ofembedded members extend through the top surface of the structural blockand the plurality of apertures extend within the structural block fromthe bottom surface of the structural block.
 4. The interlockingstructural block of claim 2, wherein the plurality of embedded membersextend through one end surface of the structural block and the pluralityof apertures extend within the structural block from the opposed endsurface of the structural block.
 5. The interlocking structural block ofclaim 2, wherein the plurality of embedded members extend through oneside surface of the structural block and the plurality of aperturesextend within the structural block from the opposed side surface of thestructural block.
 6. The interlocking structural block of claim 2,wherein the apertures extend within the structural block from an opposedsurface of the structural block to the terminating end of an embeddedmember of the structural block.
 7. The interlocking structural block ofclaim 6, wherein the distance the embedded members extend from thesurface of the structural block is less than or equal to the distancethe apertures extend within the structural block.
 8. The interlockingstructural block of claim 7, wherein the distance the embedded membersextend from the surface of the structural block is at least one inch andthe distance that the apertures extend within the structural block isabout equal to the distance that the embedded members extend.
 9. Theinterlocking structural block of claim 2, wherein the embedded membersand the apertures are square in cross section.
 10. The interlockingstructural block of claim 2, wherein the embedded members and theapertures are round in cross section.
 11. The interlocking structuralblock of claim 2, wherein one or more of the embedded members arehollow.
 12. The interlocking structural block of claim 11, wherein atleast one of the embedded members is slotted.
 13. The interlockingstructural block of claim 2, further comprising at least one perforatedtube embedded within the structural block.
 14. The interlockingstructural block of claim 2, wherein the embedded members comprisematerial which is substantially non-compressible along its length andcontribute to the load bearing attributes of the structural block undercompression.
 15. The interlocking structural block of claim 2, whereinthe embedded members comprise wooden materials, organic fibers,inorganic fibers, composite materials, polymers, metallic materials,polymers, plastics, resins, or any combination thereof.
 16. Theinterlocking structural block of claim 15, wherein the embedded membercomprises hemp, carbon fibers, composites of carbon fibers, or anycombination thereof.
 17. The interlocking structural block of claim 1,further comprising at least one conduit for accommodating electricalwiring, piping or utilities.
 18. An interlocking structural blockcomprising: a block body having opposed top and bottom surfaces, opposedside surfaces and opposed end surfaces; a plurality of members embeddedwithin the block, one end of the member extending through the topsurface of the structural block and an opposite end of the memberterminating partway within the structural block, wherein the embeddedmembers comprise material which is substantially non-compressible alongits length and contribute to the load bearing attributes of thestructural block under compression; a plurality of apertures extendingwithin the structural block from the bottom surface of the structuralblock to the terminating end of an embedded member of the structuralblock, the apertures adapted for engaging with an extending end of anadjacent structural block; at least one perforated tube embedded withinthe structural block; and at least one conduit for accommodatingelectrical wiring, piping or utilities.
 19. A system of auto-aligninginterlocking structural blocks comprising: A plurality of structuralblocks, each block having opposed top and bottom surfaces, opposed sidesurfaces and opposed end surfaces, a plurality of members embeddedwithin the block, one end of each member extending through one surfaceof the structural block with an opposite end of the member terminatingpartway within the structural block, a plurality of apertures extendingthrough the structural block from an opposed surface; wherein theembedded member extending end of a first structural block engages withthe aperture of a second block, such that the embedded memberterminating end of the second block is in direct contact with theembedded member extending end of the first block.
 20. The system ofclaim 19, further comprising an agent for binding the embedded member ofa structural block into an aperture of an adjacent structural block. 21.The system of claim 20, wherein the binding agent is lime mortar,polymer based agent, cement, plaster, or any combination thereof. 22.Use of the interlocking structural block of claim 1, in the manufactureof a structure.